John Aloisi has propelled Chengdu Rongcheng to the top of the Chinese Super League after just eight games, winning seven and drawing one, with 23 goals scored and only two points dropped. The Australian coach, in his first few months in charge, is being hailed as a potential successor to Ange Postecoglou and Kevin Muscat after transforming the Sichuan side into title contenders.
Attacking Football Wins Over Fans
Chengdu’s fans, once drawn to pandas and hot pots, are now flocking to Phoenix Hill Sports Park Football Stadium in record numbers. A 4-0 victory over Zhejiang, managed by Aloisi’s older brother Ross Aloisi, in front of 41,428 spectators showcased the team’s dominance. The goals came from all four forwards: Wellington Silva, Felipe (his 12th of the season), Wei Shihao, and Behram Abduweli.
“We witnessed the essential qualities of a team that can win the title,” one report stated. “It was a perfect balance between control and explosiveness.” Fan Li Chen added: “We believe we are going to win every game… What Postecoglou did in Japan and Muscat did in Shanghai, Aloisi can do here.”
Formation Shift and Tactical Revival
Aloisi has moved away from Chengdu’s traditional 5-3-2, introducing fluid systems like 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-3. His approach has revitalised players like 32-year-old defender Han Pengfei, who struggled last season but now thrives with greater responsibility. Rômulo, operating as the No 10, has been instrumental in dictating play.
“When the club first brought in Aloisi, many fans were sceptical,” reported Sina. “Now it seems that not only he can handle it, but under him the team is sharper going forward and plays with a more stable tempo.”
The Luck Factor
Chengdu’s rise has been aided by widespread points deductions. Nine of 16 CSL clubs were penalised for financial violations. Shanghai Port, defending champions under Muscat, began the season with a five-point deficit. Shanghai Shenhua, last season’s runners-up, lost 10 points. Zhejiang, managed by Ross Aloisi, were docked five, leaving them with just three points from eight games.
As a result, Chengdu, third last season, now sit four points clear at the summit despite starting level.
Crucial Test Ahead
The real test comes on Friday, when Chengdu face Shanghai Shenhua on a national holiday in front of an expected 60,000 fans. Had Shenhua not been penalised, they would be just two points behind. A win for Leonid Slutsky’s side could shift the momentum in the title race.
But for now, John Aloisi stands at the heart of a thrilling East Asian title battle, following the path forged by Postecoglou and Muscat — and aiming to make history in Chengdu.